Catholic Answers Live

#12573 Why Is Catholicism So Complicated? Scapulars and SSPX - Joe Heschmeyer

Feb 3, 2026
Joe Heschmeyer, a regular Catholic apologist and podcast host, offers clear takes on tricky questions of faith. He discusses why Catholic practice feels complex. He explores curiosities like the number 37 in Scripture and differences between Mark and John. He tackles sacrament questions such as wearing a scapular before baptism and explains SSPX and sedevacantist relationships to the Church.
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INSIGHT

Gifted Yet Demanding Spiritual Life

  • The spiritual life is a free gift you cannot earn, yet you must actively maintain and grow it.
  • The Church provides guidance and boundaries to help people survive and flourish spiritually.
INSIGHT

Bible’s Breadth Requires Guidance

  • The Bible offers far more than a few proof-texts; its breadth equips Christians for complex modern questions.
  • The Church interprets Scripture authoritatively to address issues the first century never faced.
ADVICE

Prudence Within Church Boundaries

  • Use your God-given prudence within boundaries set by the Church when making moral decisions.
  • Avoid options the Church deems immoral and then discern within the permitted range.
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